Low Serum Testosterone Concentrations Research Articles

7500 Effect Of Orchiectomy On Bone Microarchitecture In Male Mice With Kidney Disease

Abstract Disclosure: D. Wu: None. A. Patwardhan: None. O. Marks: None. Y. Komaru: None. E. Kefalogianni: None. R. Aurora: None. S. Dhindsa: None. A. Herrlich: None. Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) leads to decreased bone density and increased fracture risk. In males, an additional factor contributes to the low bone density. Around half of the men with CKD have low serum testosterone concentrations. We hypothesized that CKD and low testosterone would have an additive and detrimental effect on bone. Methods: Forty male C57BL/6 mice were divided into 4 groups: 1) renal injury, induced by ischemia-induced reperfusion (IRI) and sham orchidectomy (IRI-sham, N=8) at 2 months of age; 2) orchidectomy (ORX), performed 4 weeks after IRI (IRI + ORX, N=11); 3) sham-ORX, N=9; and 4) sham-sham surgery, N=12. 12 weeks after IRI, the mice developed renal fibrosis and decreased glomerular filtration rate, indicative of CKD. The mice were sacrificed when they were 7 months old. Femur and tibia were harvested for both histology and μCT analysis. Results: Bone volume to total volume fraction (BV/TV) was lower in the IRI-ORX (0.06±0.02) and sham-ORX (0.08±0.02), as compared to IRI-sham (0.10±0.03, p<0.05) and sham-sham group (0.14±0.03, p<0.05) respectively. Similarly, the volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) in IRI-ORX (93±27 mgHA/cm3) and sham-ORX (112±39 mgHA/cm3) groups were lower than IRI-sham (150±43 mgHA/cm3, p<0.05) and sham-sham (187±30 mgHA/cm3, p<0.05) mice. Trabecular number (Tb.N) was decreased in the IRI-ORX group (2.7±0.7 #/mm) compared to IRI-sham group (4.1±1.1 #/mm, p<0.05). Tb.N was also lower in sham-ORX (3.2±1.1 #/mm) mice than sham-sham (4.5±0.2 #/mm), but not IRI-sham mice. In contrast, trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) was lower in IRI-ORX (0.035±0.002 mm) and IRI-sham (0.038±0.002 mm) compared to sham-ORX (0.045±0.005 mm) and sham-sham (0.047±0.005 mm, p<0.05). Trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp) was increased by 47% in IRI-ORX group compared to IRI-sham group (0.26±0.09 mm). Decreased trabecular numbers and increased spacing results in reduced connectivity density (Conn.Den), which was decreased by 60% in the IRI-ORX sham-ORX groups as compared to sham-sham group (423±58 #/mm3, p<0.05). 2 way ANOVA analysis showed that ORX significantly contributed to the variance in BV/TV (p<0.001), vBMD (p<0.001), Tb.N (p<0.01), Tb.Sp (p<0.01) and Conn.Den (p<0.001), while IRI contributed to Tb.Th (p<0.0001). There was no significant interaction between IRI and ORX in all endpoints. Conclusions: Taken together, these data indicate that even in the presence of established CKD, ORX has a greater effect on bone mass. ORX decreased trabecular number (Tb.N) and increased trabecular spacing (Tb.Sp) to a greater extent than IRI. IRI decreased trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) while ORX had no effect on that parameter. Trabecular bone loss starts by trabecular thinning. Eventually, the trabeculae will be completely resorbed, resulting in decreased trabecular numbers and increased spacing. Our data indicate that IRI and ORX affect bone at different time points. Presentation: 6/1/2024

6597 An Unusual Case of Klinefelter Syndrome with Both Primary and Superimposed Secondary Hypogonadism

Abstract Disclosure: A. Krueger: None. E. Pelley: None. Introduction: Klinefelter syndrome (KS) (47, XXY) is a sex-chromosome disorder that is a common cause of infertility and hypogonadism in men. Clinical phenotype includes tall stature, delayed or incomplete puberty, small testes (<4ml), gynecomastia, and oligo or azoospermia. The extra X chromosome leads to fibrosis and hyalinization of seminiferous tubules resulting in impaired sperm production. Leydig cells also function abnormally and fail to stimulate with LH. Common biochemical evaluation results in low serum testosterone, elevated FSH and LH concentrations, and azoospermia. Case Report: 37-year-old male presented with long standing history of low libido and a perception that he had never fully progressed through puberty. Physical exam was notable for a height of 6’ 4”, obesity, fine pubic and axillary hair, and testes <4mL bilaterally. Initial biochemical work up revealed low serum total testosterone 43 (ref 300-1080 ng/dL), low free testosterone 8.1 (ref 47-244 pg/mL), inappropriately normal LH 10.8 (ref 0.6-12.1 mlU/mL), and elevated FSH 28.3 (ref 1.0-12.0 mlU/mL). Patient was referred to Endocrinology. Labs were repeated with consistent results in addition to chromosome analysis which confirmed diagnosis of Klinefelter syndrome with (47, XXY) karyotype. Due to inappropriately normal LH and mixed picture of primary and superimposed secondary hypogonadism, an MRI of the pituitary was obtained and revealed an 8mm x7mm x 14mm pituitary macroadenoma. Evaluation for pituitary hypersecretion and other deficiencies was unremarkable. Conclusion: Data from the Danish National registry shows that only 25% of Klinefelter patients are correctly diagnosed. Klinefelter syndrome should be considered in the differential for the evaluation of hypogonadism and infertility. Diagnosis can be made by karyotyping. The degree of impaired spermatogenesis and testosterone production in Klinefelter syndrome can be variable. Biochemical evaluation should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical context. Patients with known causes of primary hypogonadism who demonstrate an inappropriate gonadotropin response require evaluation for causes of secondary hypogonadism. In this case, the inappropriately normal LH was the sole clue leading to the identification of his pituitary macroadenoma. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Testosterone and the prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus: therapeutic implications from recent trials.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing to epidemic proportions and frequently associated with obesity and a low serum testosterone concentration in men. This review valuates recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of testosterone treatment on glycemic control and T2D prevention. The 2-year Testosterone for the Prevention of Type 2 diabetes Trial (T4DM) study showed that in men aged 50 years and over with visceral obesity and impaired glucose tolerance, testosterone treatment on the background of a lifestyle intervention reduced T2D risk by 40%. The Testosterone Effects on Atherosclerosis Progression in Aging Men and Testosterone Trials demonstrated modest improvements in insulin sensitivity and body composition. However, the Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Assessment of Long-Term Vascular Events and Efficacy Response in Hypogonadal Men trial found no significant glycemic benefits over 2 years. Recent data from the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcome Study support the cost efficacy and durability of metformin. In men at high risk of T2D, treatment with testosterone prevents the disease; however, there are caveats to its use and other approaches may be more applicable. Differences in trial designs, age groups, and outcome measures contribute to varying results. HbA1C is a suboptimal outcome measure. Future research should explore potential synergies between testosterone and GLP-1 receptor agonists in T2D management, while considering cost-effectiveness.

Addition of testosterone to endocrine care for transgender women: a dose-finding and feasibility trial.

Transgender women who underwent gonadectomy have lower serum testosterone concentrations than cisgender women. There is uncertainty regarding the dosing and side effects of supplementation of testosterone in transgender women. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of dosing testosterone to the cisgender female physiological range in transgender women. In addition, we explored changes in cardiovascular parameters, virilizing side effects, and clinical symptoms. This is an open-label, single-arm feasibility study. Participants initially went through a dose-titration phase with 2-week intervals of 0.07-0.09-0.13 mL (277-318-403 μg bioavailable testosterone) testosterone 2% gel to establish a dose leading to serum testosterone concentrations between 1.5 and 2.5 nmol/L. This dose was then continued for 8 weeks. Participants applied daily transdermal testosterone 2% gel (Tostran®) at the prescribed dosage. Testosterone was measured every 2-4 weeks. Laboratory analyses, side effects, and clinical symptoms were evaluated. In total, 12 participants were included. Most participants required a dose of 0.07 mL (277 μg bioavailable testosterone) or 0.09 mL (318 μg bioavailable testosterone) to reach serum testosterone concentrations of 1.5-2.5 nmol/L. Continuing this dose, testosterone concentrations remained stable throughout the study. Changes in clinical outcomes were in the desired direction, and side effects were mild. The use of testosterone supplementation in transgender women seems feasible and safe in the short term. Although dosing requires personalized titration, stable testosterone levels can be established. A blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial is needed to study the clinical benefit.

Classes and predictors of reversal in male patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: a cross-sectional study of six international referral centres

Although some male patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) undergo spontaneous reversal following treatment, predictors of reversal remain elusive. We aimed to assemble the largest cohort of male patients with CHH reversal to date and identify distinct classes of reversal. This multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted in six international CHH referral centres in Brazil, Finland, France, Italy, the UK, and the USA. Adult men with CHH (ie, absent or incomplete spontaneous puberty by age 18 years, low serum testosterone concentrations, and no identifiable cause of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal [HPG] axis dysfunction) were eligible for inclusion. CHH reversal was defined as spontaneous recovery of HPG axis function off treatment. Centres provided common data elements on patient phenotype, clinical assessment, and genetics using a structured, harmonised data collection form developed by COST Action BM1105. Latent class mixture modelling (LCMM) was applied to establish whether at least two distinct classes of reversal could be identified and differentially predicted, and results were compared with a cohort of patients without CHH reversal to identify potential predictors of reversal. The primary outcome was the presence of at least two distinct classes of reversal. A total of 87 male patients with CHH reversal and 108 without CHH reversal were included in the analyses. LCMM identified two distinct reversal classes (75 [86%] in class 1 and 12 [14%] in class 2) on the basis of mean testicular volume, micropenis, and serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration. Classification probabilities were robust (0·998 for class 1 and 0·838 for class 2) and modelling uncertainty was low (entropy 0·90). Compared with class 1, patients in class 2 had significantly larger testicular volume (p<0·0001), no micropenis, and higher serum FSH concentrations (p=0·041), consistent with the Pasqualini syndrome (fertile eunuch) subtype of CHH. Patients without CHH reversal were more likely to have anosmia (p=0·016), cryptorchidism (p=0·0012), complete absence of puberty (testicular volume <4 cm³; p=0·0016), and two or more rare genetic variants (ie, oligogenicity; p=0·0001). Among patients who underwent genetic testing, no patients (of 75) with CHH reversal had a rare pathogenic ANOS1 variant compared with ten (11%) of 95 patients without CHH reversal. Individuals with CHH reversal had a significantly higher rate of rare variants in GNRHR than did those without reversal (nine [12%] of 75 vs three [3%] of 95; p=0·025). Applying LCMM to a large cohort of male patients with CHH reversal uncovered two distinct classes of reversal. Genetic investigation combined with careful clinical phenotyping could help surveillance of reversal after withdrawing treatment, representing the first tailored management approach for male patients with this rare endocrine disorder. National Institutes of Health National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences; Ministry of Health, Rome, Italy; Ministry of University, Rome, Italy; National Institutes of Health Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; and the Josiah Macy Jr Foundation. For the Italian translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Effects of postnatal exposure to cadmium on male sexual incentive motivation and copulatory behavior: Estrogen and androgen receptors expression in adult brain rat

There are numerous evidence showing that cadmium (Cd) is an endocrine disruptor that exerts multiple toxic effects at different reproductive levels, including male sexual behavior (MSB). The effect of early exposure to Cd on sexual incentive motivation (SIM) and MSB in adult stage, and the immunoreactivity of receptors for hormones such as estrogens and androgens in brain regions that are relevant for the SIM and MSB display, have not been studied until now. The present study evaluated the effects of 0.5 and 1 mg/kg CdCl2 from day 1–56 of postnatal life on SIM and MSB in adults rats, as well as serum testosterone concentrations, Cd concentration in blood, testis, and brain areas, and the immunoreactivity in estrogen receptors (ER-α and -β), and androgen receptor (AR) in the olfactory bulbs (OB), medial preoptic area (mPOA), and medial amygdala (MeA). Our results showed that both doses of Cd decreased SIM and MSB, accompanied by low serum concentrations of testosterone. Also, there was a significant reduction in immunoreactivity of ER-α and AR in mPOA, and a significant reduction in AR in MeA on male rats treated with Cd 1 mg/kg. These results show that exposure to high doses of Cd in early postnatal life could alter the correct integration of hormonal signals in the brain areas that regulate and display SIM and MSB in adult male rats.

Testosterone and type 2 diabetes prevention: translational lessons from the T4DM study.

Testosterone acting via the androgen receptor, and via aromatisation to oestradiol, an activator of the oestrogen receptor, plays key roles in adipose tissue, bone and skeletal muscle biology. This is reflected in epidemiological studies associating obesity and disordered glucose metabolism with lower serum testosterone concentrations and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in men. Testosterone also modulates erythrocytosis and vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell function, with potential impacts on haematocrit and the cardiovascular system. The Testosterone for the Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes (T4DM) study enrolled men aged 50 years and over with a waist circumference of 95 cm or over, impaired glucose tolerance or newly diagnosed T2D, and a serum testosterone concentration (as measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay) <14.0 nmol/L. The study reported that a 2-year treatment with testosterone undecanoate 1000 mg, administered 3-monthly intramuscularly, on the background of a lifestyle program, reduced the likelihood of T2D diagnosis by 40% compared to placebo. This effect was accompanied by a decrease in fasting serum glucose and associated with favourable changes in body composition, hand grip strength, bone mineral density and skeletal microarchitecture but not in HbA1c, a red blood cell-dependent measure of glycaemic control. There was no signal for cardiovascular adverse events. With the objective of informing translational science and future directions, this article discusses mechanistic studies underpinning the rationale for T4DM and translational implications of the key outcomes relating to glycaemia, and body composition, together with effects on erythrocytosis, cardiovascular risk and slow recovery of the hypothalamo-pituitary-testicular axis.

Approach to the Patient: The Evaluation and Management of Men ≥50 Years With Low Serum Testosterone Concentration.

Although testosterone replacement in men with classic hypogonadism due to an identified pathology of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis is uncontroversial, the role of testosterone treatment for men with age-related declines in circulating testosterone is unclear. This is due to the lack of large, long-term testosterone therapy trials assessing definitive clinical endpoints. However, men ≥50 years of age, particularly those who have a body mass index >25 kg/m2 and multiple comorbidities, commonly present with clinical features of androgen deficiency and low serum testosterone concentrations. Clinicians are faced with the question whether to initiate testosterone therapy, a difficult dilemma that entails a benefit-risk analysis with limited evidence from clinical trials. Using a case scenario, we present a practical approach to the clinical assessment and management of such men.

The influence of testosterone on the risk of cardiovascular events after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Between 2015 and 2018, 580 men undergoing PCI at a tertiary referral hospital were divided into low (<3.25 ng/mL) and normal (≥3.25 ng/mL) testosterone groups. Major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) was defined as the composite outcome of CV death, myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization/target vessel revascularization (TLR/TVR) during up to 48 months follow-up after PCI. There were 111 and 469 patients in the low and normal testosterone groups, respectively, with the overall MACE rate of the former being higher than the latter (26.13% vs. 13.01%, p = 0.0006). Moreover, the overall TLR/TVR (20.72% vs. 11.73%, p = 0.0125) and myocardial infarction (3.6% vs. 0.85%, p = 0.0255) rates were significantly higher in those with low serum testosterone who also had a shorter average event-free survival analysis of MACE (25.22 ± 0.88 months) than those with normal testosterone levels (35.09 ± 0.47 months, log-rank p = 0.0004). Multiple logistic regression demonstrated an association between low serum testosterone (<3.25 ng/mL) and a higher MACE rate [odds ratio: 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.21-3.51, p = 0.0081]. After adjusting for variables in a Cox regression model, hazard ratios (HRs) for MACE (HR: 1.88, 95% CI: 1.20-2.95, p = 0.0058) and TLR/TVR (HR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.06-2.83, p = 0.0290) rates were higher in the low testosterone group than those in the normal testosterone group. Low serum testosterone concentrations were associated with a higher risk of MACE and TLR/TVR after PCI than those with normal testosterone levels.

Aging and androgens: Physiology and clinical implications.

In men > ~35years, aging is associated with perturbations in the hypothalamus-pituitary-testicular axis and declining serum testosterone concentrations. The major changes are decreased gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) outflow and decreased Leydig cell responsivity to stimulation by luteinizing hormone (LH). These physiologic changes increase the prevalence of biochemical secondary hypogonadism-a low serum testosterone concentration without an elevated serum LH concentration. Obesity, medications such as opioids or corticosteroids, and systemic disease further reduce GnRH and LH secretion and might result in biochemical or clinical secondary hypogonadism. Biochemical secondary hypogonadism related to aging often remits with weight reduction and avoidance or treatment of other factors that suppress GnRH and LH secretion. Starting at age ~65-70, progressive Leydig cell dysfunction increases the prevalence of biochemical primary hypogonadism-a low serum testosterone concentration with an elevated serum LH concentration. Unlike biochemical secondary hypogonadism in older men, biochemical primary hypogonadism is generally irreversible. The evaluation of low serum testosterone concentrations in older men requires a careful assessment for symptoms, signs and causes of male hypogonadism. In older men with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30, biochemical secondary hypogonadism and without an identifiable cause of hypothalamus or pituitary pathology, weight reduction and improvement of overall health might reverse biochemical hypogonadism. For older men with biochemical primary hypogonadism, testosterone replacement therapy might be beneficial. Because aging is associated with decreased metabolism of testosterone and increased tissue-specific androgen sensitivity, lower dosages of testosterone replacement therapy are often effective and safer in older men.

Testosterone therapy reduces hepatic steatosis in men with type 2 diabetes and low serum testosterone concentrations.

BACKGROUNDNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in people with diabetes with no available treatment. AIMTo explore the effect of testosterone treatment on liver. Testosterone therapy improves insulin resistance and reduces total body fat, but its impact on the liver remains poorly studied.METHODSThis secondary analysis of a 40 wk, randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial of intramuscular testosterone undecanoate in men with type 2 diabetes and lowered serum testosterone concentrations evaluated the change in hepatic steatosis as measured by liver fat fraction on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).RESULTSOf 88 patients enrolled in the index study, 39 had liver MRIs of whom 20 received testosterone therapy and 19 received placebo. All patients had > 5% hepatic steatosis at baseline and 38 of 39 patients met diagnostic criteria for NAFLD. Median liver fat at baseline was 15.0% (IQR 11.5%-21.1%) in the testosterone and 18.4% (15.0%-28.9%) in the placebo group. Median ALT was 34units/L (26-38) in the testosterone and 32units/L (25-52) in the placebo group. At week 40, patients receiving testosterone had a median reduction in absolute liver fat of 3.5% (IQR 2.9%-6.4%) compared with an increase of 1.2% in the placebo arm (between-group difference 4.7% P < 0.001). After controlling for baseline liver fat, testosterone therapy was associated with a relative reduction in liver fat of 38.3% (95% confidence interval 25.4%-49.0%, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONTestosterone therapy was associated with a reduction in hepatic steatosis in men with diabetes and low serum testosterone. Future randomised studies of testosterone therapy in men with NAFLD focusing on liver-related endpoints are therefore justified.

Definition of Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer: New Insights.

The term castrate resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) was initially proposed by the Prostate Cancer Working Group 2 in 2008 to define the state of clinical and/or biochemical progression of prostate cancer (PCa) in an environment with very low serum testosterone concentration. Clinical progression is based on the radiological imaging proposed by the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) adapted to PCa. Biochemical progression is defined as an over 25% increase in serum prostate-specific antigen within two consecutive measurements separated by at least one week, and an absolute value above 2.0 ng/mL. Finally, the castrate environment is usually defined as a serum testosterone concentration maintained below 50 ng/dL or 1.7 nmol/dL. This definition does not incorporate the new and more accurate imaging modalities to assess clinical progression and the capability of the new biochemical measurements to assess the true castration environment. Ga-68-PSMA-11 PET CT/MRI and whole-body MRI are the new imaging modalities that should replace the classic thoracic CT scan, abdomino-pelvic CT scan, and technetium 99-m bone scintigraphy. In addition, Ga-68-PSMA-11 PET is the current basis for the new therapies targeting metastatic sites. Moreover, the current methods for measuring the very low serum testosterone concentrations in clinical laboratories are the widespread chemiluminescent assays, which are inappropriate, while LC-MSMS is the only method recommended to assess the castrate environment. In addition, recent research shows that serum luteinising hormone concentration associates better than serum testosterone with the castration environment, even when it is measured with LC-MSMS. In summary, the current definition of CRPC seems outdated. An extensive update to diagnose true CRPC is also needed to differentiate CRPC men with M0 (non-metastatic) from those with M1 (metastatic) CRPC. WC: 277.

Comparison of Patterns of Use and Clinical Outcomes Between Injections of Testosterone Undecanoate and Testosterone Cypionate: An Electronic Health Record Cohort Study

Background: Hypogonadism is characterized by low serum testosterone concentrations and the associated clinical manifestations (e.g., reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and fatigue); testosterone therapy (TTh) is the primary treatment. This study compared treatment patterns and health outcomes in men using injection TTh with long-acting testosterone undecanoate (TU) injection versus short-acting testosterone cypionate (TC) injection. Methods: A U.S. electronic health records (EHR) database was retrospectively reviewed to identify adult men who had TTh of TU or TC (index treatment) between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2018, and ≥1 EHR within the 12 months before and 6 months after index treatment. Results: There were 948 patients in the TU cohort and 121,852 in the TC cohort, of whom 419 and 86,219, respectively, were TTh-naive at index treatment. Hypogonadism diagnosis was documented in 81.1% and 58.8% of patients in the overall TU and TC cohorts, respectively. During the 1-year postindex period, higher adherence rates were observed in the TU versus TC cohort during months 7 through 12 (82.0% vs. 40.8%; p < 0.001), and a greater percentage of patients continued to receive TU (41.9%) versus TC (8.2%) for 12 months (p < 0.001). Variability in total testosterone levels was lower for TU versus TC in the TTh-naive population. Conclusions: In this retrospective EHR study, men who received TU demonstrated a two-fold higher adherence, a five-fold improved maintenance on index TTh, and more stable testosterone levels at 1-year follow-up versus men who received TC. More consistent TTh use observed with TU may result in improved health outcomes for men with hypogonadism.

Lower serum testosterone concentrations are associated with a higher incidence of dementia in men: The UK Biobank prospective cohort study.

The association of testosterone concentrations with dementia risk remains uncertain. We examined associations of serum testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) with incidence of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Serum total testosterone and SHBG were measured by immunoassay. The incidence of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) was recorded. Cox proportional hazards regression was adjusted for age and other variables. In 159,411 community-dwelling men (median age 61, followed for 7 years), 826 developed dementia, including 288 from AD. Lower total testosterone was associated with a higher incidence of dementia (overall trend: P=.001, lowest vs highest quintile: hazard ratio [HR]=1.43, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.13-1.81), and AD (P=.017, HR=1.80, CI=1.21-2.66). Lower SHBG was associated with a lower incidence of dementia (P<.001, HR=0.66, CI=0.51-0.85) and AD (P=.012, HR=0.53, CI=0.34-0.84). Lower total testosterone and higher SHBG are independently associated with incident dementia and AD in older men. Additional research is needed to determine causality.

International Prostate Symptom Score and Quality of Life Index for Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Are Associated with Aging Males Symptoms Rating Scale for Late-Onset Hypogonadism Symptoms.

Although patients with late-onset hypogonadism (LOH) often experience lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), LUTS are not generally included in LOH symptoms. No study has examined the direct relation of the Aging Males Symptoms rating scale (AMS) and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) with the quality of life (QOL) index. We analyzed the relation between the IPSS and QOL index and various factors including the AMS in patients with LOH syndromes. This study comprised 1,688 men with LOH symptoms who visited our hospital or affiliated clinic. Factors associated with the IPSS were assessed in terms of age, scores of several questionnaires including the AMS, endocrinological variables, and serum concentration of PSA. Among these same factors, those associated with the QOL index were also evaluated. Finally, the same analyses were repeated in 187 patients with low serum testosterone concentration (<3.0 ng/mL). In a multivariate analysis using the significant items from the univariate analysis, AMS, age, and Erection Hardness Score correlated significantly with the IPSS. A trend analysis using items other than the AMS as adjustment factors also confirmed the relationship between an increase in QOL index and an increase in AMS. Similar results were obtained in the analysis of patients with low serum testosterone concentration. We revealed that the relation of IPSS with the QOL index for LUTS is closely associated with the AMS for LOH, regardless of testosterone level. When patients complain of LOH symptoms, a careful, detailed inquiry into LUTS is required.

Low Serum Testosterone Concentrations Are Associated With Poor Cognitive Performance in Older Men but Not Women.

Objective: Current evidence on the association between serum testosterone and cognitive performance has been inconsistent, especially in older adults. To investigate the associations between serum testosterone and cognitive performance in a nationally representative sample of older men and women.Methods: We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2014. 1,303 men and 1,349 women aged 60 years or older were included in the study. Serum total testosterone was preformed via isotope dilution liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (ID-LC-MS/MS) method. Free testosterone was calculated by Vermeulen’s formula. Cognitive performance was evaluated by the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease (CERAD) test, Animal Fluency test, and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Binary logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models were applied to evaluate the association of testosterone and cognitive performance.Results: In men, higher concentrations of total testosterone were associated with better performance on CERAD test (OR = 0.51; 95%CI = 0.27–0.95) and DSST (OR = 0.54; 95%CI = 0.30–0.99) in adjusted group. Similarly, higher concentrations of free testosterone were associated with better performance on CERAD test (OR = 0.32; 95%CI = 0.17–0.61) and DSST (OR = 0.41; 95%CI = 0.17–0.96) in men. These associations were not seen in women.Conclusion: Serum testosterone concentrations were inversely associated with cognitive performance in older men but not women in the United States.

Reproductive suppression of giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) under managed care using a GnRH immunological product.

Giraffe present unique contraception challenges as males persistently pursue females during estrus. Year-round pursuit during frequent recurring estrus can pose significant risk under slippery conditions. Complete ovarian suppression is a useful tool in giraffe because it eliminates estrous behavior, interest from the male, and controls reproduction. Effective reproduction control in giraffes has been achieved with porcine zona pellucida, oral melengestrol acetate, and depot medroxy-progesterone acetate. However, these methods allow some degree of folliculogenesis and estrous behavior. Improvest® is a gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) immunological product that elicits antibodies against GnRH and abrogates the effects of endogenous GnRH. This study evaluated the efficacy of Improvest® for gonadal suppression in seven females and one male giraffe by monitoring steroid hormones. Seven female giraffe were treated intramuscularly with an initial dose, a booster at 4 weeks and maintenance boosters at 3-month intervals (600 µg/dose) for 12 months. Six females were on supplemental contraception during the induction phase because separation from males was not possible. In the male (treated with 400 µg), testosterone concentrations decreased after the second injection. However, even with low serum testosterone concentrations, mounting (of nontreated females) behavior was still observed occasionally. Ovarian activity was suppressed in all treated females and interest by the males stopped; supplemental contraceptives (during the induction phase) did not impede the effect of Improvest®. After 15.3 months (seven doses), Improvest® was discontinued in three females which no longer needed contraception. In these females, ovarian activity was noted approximately 90 days after the last dose.

Age-related cognitive impairment is associated with low serum concentrations of testosterone and CSF levels of amyloid beta 42 in male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis).

Aged memory-impaired cynomolgus monkeys had significantly lower levels of cerebrospinal amyloid (Aβ42 ) and serum testosterone compared with young animals and non-memory-impaired controls. Our findings confirm similar findings in the human and substantiate the usefulness of the cynomolgus monkey as a spontaneous model for aging-associated senile dementia of the Alzheimer type.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Is Associated With Low Testosterone Levels in Severely Obese Men.

BackgroundDisrupted sleep affects cardio-metabolic and reproductive health. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome represents a major complication of obesity and has been associated with gonadal axis activity changes and lower serum testosterone concentration in men. However, there is no consistent opinion on the effect of obstructive sleep apnea on testosterone levels in men.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine the influence of obstructive sleep apnea on total and free testosterone levels in severely obese men.Materials and methodsThe study included 104 severely obese (Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m2) men, aged 20 to 60, who underwent anthropometric, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profile, and sex hormone measurements. All participants were subjected to polysomnography. According to apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) patients were divided into 3 groups: <15 (n = 20), 15 - 29.9 (n = 17) and ≥ 30 (n = 67).ResultsThere was a significant difference between AHI groups in age (29.1 ± 7.2, 43.2 ± 13.2, 45.2 ± 10.2 years; p < 0.001), BMI (42.8 ± 5.9, 43.2 ± 5.9, 47.1 ± 7.8 kg/m2; p = 0.023), the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) (55%, 82.4%, 83.6%, p = 0.017), continuous metabolic syndrome score (siMS) (4.01 ± 1.21, 3.42 ± 0.80, 3.94 ± 1.81, 4.20 ± 1.07; p = 0.038), total testosterone (TT) (16.6 ± 6.1, 15.2 ± 5.3, 11.3 ± 4.44 nmol/l; p < 0.001) and free testosterone (FT) levels (440.4 ± 160.8, 389.6 ± 162.5, 294.5 ± 107.0 pmol/l; p < 0.001). TT level was in a significant negative correlation with AHI, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), BMI, MetS and siMS. Also, FT was in a significant negative correlation with AHI, ODI, BMI, age, MetS and siMS. The multiple regression analysis revealed that both AHI and ODI were in significant correlation with TT and FT after adjustment for age, BMI, siMS score and MetS components.ConclusionObstructive sleep apnea is associated with low TT and FT levels in severely obese men.

Dysregulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis due to Energy Deficit.

Although gonadal axis dysregulation from energy deficit is well recognized in women, the effects of energy deficit on the male gonadal axis have received much less attention. To identify relevant articles, we conducted PubMed searches from inception to May 2021. Case series and mechanistic studies demonstrate that energy deficit (both acutely over days or chronically over months) either from inadequate energy intake and/or excessive energy expenditure can lower serum testosterone concentration as a result of hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis dysregulation in men. The extent to which this has clinical consequences that can be disentangled from the effects of nutritional insufficiency, concomitant endocrine dysregulation (eg, adrenal and thyroid axis), and coexisting comorbidities (eg, depression and substance abuse) is uncertain. HPT axis dysfunction is primarily the result of loss of GnRH pulsatility resulting from a failure of leptin to induce kisspeptin signaling. The roles of neuroendocrine consequences of depression, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation, proinflammatory cytokines, Ghrelin, and genetic susceptibility remain unclear. In contrast to hypogonadism from organic pathology of the HPT axis, energy deficit-associated HPT dysregulation is functional, and generally reversible by restoring energy balance. The clinical management of such men should aim to restore adequate nutrition and achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. Psychosocial comorbidities must be identified and addressed. There is no evidence that testosterone treatment is beneficial. Many knowledge gaps regarding epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment remain and we highlight several areas that require future research.